Not far from the Lambir Hills and sitting high up overlooking
the jungle, just along the coast from Miri, Sarawak, is TreeTops Lodge;
situated on the outskirts of the village named Siwa Jaya, which has
about 20 houses in it. Originally a small weekend retreat (built in just 7
days!), the house has been totally re-built 5 years ago and now comprises
guest rooms downstairs with modern shower and toilet facilities, plus a
large outside sitting and eating area on the first floor verandah and a patio on the ground floor. A
good "transit" lodge for your travels through Borneo!
The veranda is a cool, breezy place high up at tree-top level; an ideal spot to
take breakfast in the mornings or for a few drinks in the evening as the sun
sets on the far side.
Around and below the house are 2 acres of carefully tended fruit
trees - orange, lemon, rambutan, mango plus pineapples and vegetables, and right
at the bottom is a small dam with fish (Tilapia) for breeding (and eating!). In
the center of the dam is a small traditional Longhouse with 5 private rooms,
(single, twin and double beds) plus two shower/toilet facilities at the end.
Beyond the immediate garden are six acres of farming land,
planted with rice (padi fields) or maize of various kinds and these lead down to
the river; still further takes you into the Lambir Forest Reserve. Many
good walks nearby (<click here!)
Being a little way out of town (about 20 minutes), there are few
facilities nearby: a couple of village shops and the odd private food stall.
Breakfast and other meals can be had to a set menu by prior arrangement.
As people are out and about exploring the local areas, it is at times more
convenient to eat out or on the way to somewhere.
A 15 foot "plunge" pool, recently tiled and
refurbished, is built into the lower terrace - very convenient for a cool dip
day or night!
The beach is just a few minutes away down a footpath and there
is also half an acre belonging to the Lodge down by the beach with a little hut
for washing and changing.
Life at the Lodge in Siwa village is slightly primitive, but
totally peaceful. Experience the ages old traditional lifestyle of a
longhouse (all our staff are Iban, Kelabit or Kayan), but with a few amenities
included; we also visit the local Iban longhouses nearby so you can experience
the real thing!
Relax like you've never done before...... Longhouse style,
but with comfort!
